Neck Pain

Neck pain can be caused by injury, stress or by other health problems, including some that may have serious consequences. Follow this chart if you have been suffering from pain, stiffness, soreness or cramps in the neck.

Step 3

Possible Causes

Diagnosis

This may be MUSCLE SPASM or a BURNER, but it also may be an injury to the SPINAL CORD.

Self Care

URGENT
See your doctor or go to the emergency room right away. If your doctor diagnoses your problem as MUSCLE SPASM or a BURNER, use over-the counter medicine, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to relieve pain, and apply heat to the sore area, as recommended by the doctor.

Diagnosis

MUSCLE ACHES and SPASMS usually develop minutes to hours after an injury. These can often first be noticeable when you wake up the next morning after the accident or injury.

Self Care

Use anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, to relieve pain and discomfort, and apply heat to the sore area. See your doctor if your pain gets worse or lasts for several days without getting better.

Diagnosis

Your pain is probably from MUSCLE SPASM, but also may be from RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS, an inflammatory joint disease, or FIBROMYALGIA, a chronic condition affecting muscles and tendons. This also may be from a condition known as TORTICOLLIS or WRY NECK.

Self Care

Use anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, and apply heat to the sore area. See your doctor if the pain or stiffness gets worse or doesn’t get better. Acupuncture or chiropractic treatment may also be helpful.

Self Care

Diagnosis

These are known as TRIGGER POINTS and occur often with people that type or write for work.

Self Care

Provide good forearm support when typing and writing. Arm rests can help, or have the keyboard pushed back from the edge of the desk or table to allow your forearms to be supported. Acupuncture, stretching, or massage therapy can also potentially help.